Differential Diagnosis for Viêm Tuỵ Cấp (Acute Pancreatitis)
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Acute Pancreatitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the presentation of viêm tuỵ cấp, which directly translates to acute pancreatitis. The condition is characterized by inflammation of the pancreas and can be caused by gallstones, alcohol consumption, certain drugs, and other factors.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by gallstones, which can also cause abdominal pain similar to pancreatitis.
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum can cause severe abdominal pain and may mimic the symptoms of acute pancreatitis.
- Intestinal Obstruction: Blockage of the intestine can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation, which might be confused with pancreatitis.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Perforated Viscus: A hole in the wall of the stomach or intestine, which is a surgical emergency. The symptoms can overlap with those of acute pancreatitis, and missing this diagnosis can be fatal.
- Aortic Dissection: A tear in the aorta's inner layer, which can cause severe, tearing chest pain but can also present with abdominal pain if the dissection involves the abdominal aorta.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: In women of childbearing age, an ectopic pregnancy can cause severe abdominal pain and internal bleeding, which is life-threatening if not promptly treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pancreatic Cancer: Although less common as an initial presentation, pancreatic cancer can cause abdominal pain and weight loss, among other symptoms.
- Ischemic Bowel Disease: Reduced blood flow to the intestines can cause severe abdominal pain and might be considered in the differential diagnosis, especially in patients with risk factors for vascular disease.
- Familial Mediterranean Fever: A genetic disorder that can cause recurrent episodes of severe abdominal pain, among other symptoms, and might be considered in patients from certain ethnic backgrounds.