Differential Diagnosis for Stomach Pain and Blood in Stool
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: This condition is characterized by ulcers in the stomach or duodenum, often causing upper abdominal pain and occasionally bleeding, which could lead to blood in the stool. The top right and top left stomach pain could be indicative of ulcers in these areas.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): While GERD typically causes heartburn, it can also lead to stomach pain and, in severe cases, bleeding. The pain can be diffuse or localized to the upper abdomen.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause abdominal pain and blood in the stool due to inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause upper abdominal pain and, if severe, bleeding.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Gastrointestinal Cancer: Although less common, cancers of the stomach or intestines can cause abdominal pain and bleeding. Early detection is crucial for treatment.
- Mesenteric Ischemia: A condition where blood flow to the intestines is blocked, leading to severe abdominal pain and potentially bloody stools. It's a medical emergency.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe upper abdominal pain and, in some cases, bleeding.
Rare Diagnoses
- Meckel's Diverticulum: A congenital anomaly of the small intestine that can cause bleeding and abdominal pain, especially in younger patients.
- Intussusception: A condition where a part of the intestine slides into another, causing bowel obstruction and potentially severe abdominal pain and bleeding.
- Hemorrhagic Gastritis: A rare condition characterized by sudden onset of severe gastric mucosal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.