Differential Diagnosis for Nausea and Elevated Bilirubin
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Hepatitis: This is a common cause of elevated bilirubin and can lead to nausea due to the inflammation of the liver. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and often include jaundice, which is a direct result of the elevated bilirubin levels.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gallstones: Especially if they are obstructing the bile duct, gallstones can cause elevated bilirubin levels and lead to nausea. The obstruction prevents bilirubin from moving into the intestine, causing it to build up in the blood.
- Alcoholic Hepatitis: In individuals who consume alcohol heavily, alcoholic hepatitis can lead to liver inflammation, elevated bilirubin, and symptoms like nausea.
- Drug-Induced Hepatitis: Certain medications can cause liver inflammation, leading to elevated bilirubin and nausea.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A rare condition caused by obstruction of the hepatic veins, which can lead to liver failure. It's crucial to identify early due to its high mortality rate if left untreated.
- Hepatic Artery Thrombosis: A blockage of the hepatic artery can lead to liver necrosis and failure. Early detection is critical for survival.
- Acetaminophen Overdose: A common cause of acute liver failure, which can present with nausea and elevated bilirubin. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent liver damage.
Rare Diagnoses
- Wilson's Disease: A genetic disorder that leads to copper accumulation in the liver, causing liver damage and potentially elevated bilirubin.
- Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC): An autoimmune disease of the liver characterized by a progressive destruction of the bile ducts within the liver, leading to elevated bilirubin.
- Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC): A disease that leads to scarring and narrowing of the bile ducts, which can cause elevated bilirubin levels and nausea.