Differential Diagnosis for Foamy Vomit in Newborn
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER): This condition is common in newborns due to the immaturity of the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to regurgitation of feedings, which can appear foamy.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pyloric Stenosis: Although typically presenting with projectile vomiting, in early stages or in less severe cases, the vomit can be foamy. It's a condition where the pylorus muscle is thickened, blocking food from entering the small intestine.
- Infectious Gastroenteritis: Viral or bacterial infections can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to vomiting, which may appear foamy due to the presence of air or infection-related changes in stomach contents.
- Overfeeding or Incorrect Feeding Technique: Overfeeding or using an incorrect feeding technique can lead to regurgitation of milk, which may appear foamy.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Intestinal Obstruction: Conditions like duodenal atresia, volvulus, or intestinal malrotation can cause bilious vomiting, which might initially appear foamy. These conditions require immediate surgical intervention.
- Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC): A serious condition primarily affecting premature infants, where portions of the bowel tissue die. It can present with vomiting, among other symptoms, and is critical to diagnose early.
- Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Although more commonly associated with respiratory distress, vomiting can occur, and the condition is life-threatening, requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Cystic Fibrosis: Can present with gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting due to pancreatic insufficiency and intestinal obstruction.
- Congenital Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis with Associated Conditions: Rare conditions that might affect the pylorus or the stomach, leading to vomiting.
- Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic disorders can lead to vomiting in newborns, though they are less common and often present with other systemic symptoms.