Differential Diagnosis for Fever and Abdominal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Appendicitis: This condition is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of fever and abdominal pain that is more severe on the right side. The pain often starts near the belly button and then moves to the lower right abdomen. Appendicitis is a common cause of acute abdominal pain and requires prompt medical attention.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI, especially if it involves the kidneys (pyelonephritis), can cause fever and abdominal pain, particularly in the pubic region. The pain can sometimes radiate to the lower back or sides.
- Ovarian Cyst or Torsion: In females, an ovarian cyst can cause abdominal pain, and if the cyst ruptures or the ovary becomes twisted, the pain can become severe and be accompanied by fever.
- Diverticulitis: This condition involves inflammation of the diverticula in the digestive tract and can cause fever, abdominal pain (usually on the left side but can be on the right), and changes in bowel habits.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although less common, an ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that can present with abdominal pain and fever. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis in females of childbearing age.
- Intestinal Obstruction: This condition involves a blockage that prevents normal flow of the products of digestion, which can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Perforated Viscus: A perforation in the stomach or intestines can lead to peritonitis, an infection of the abdominal cavity, causing severe pain, fever, and potentially life-threatening complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Mesenteric Lymphadenitis: This condition involves inflammation of the lymph nodes in the mesentery (the tissue that attaches the intestines to the back of the abdominal wall) and can mimic appendicitis with fever and abdominal pain.
- Yersiniosis: A bacterial infection caused by Yersinia enterocolitica, which can cause fever, abdominal pain, and sometimes mimic appendicitis.
- Right Lower Lobe Pneumonia: In some cases, pneumonia affecting the right lower lobe of the lung can cause referred pain to the right lower abdomen, accompanied by fever.