Differential Diagnosis for Abdominal Pain with CT Findings of Diffuse Anasarca/Edema, Periportal Edema, Peripancreatic Edema

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Acute Pancreatitis: The presence of peripancreatic edema along with abdominal pain is highly suggestive of acute pancreatitis. The condition often leads to inflammation that can cause edema in the surrounding tissues, including the periportal area.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): CHF can lead to fluid overload, resulting in diffuse anasarca and edema, including periportal edema due to increased venous pressure.
  • Liver Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis can cause fluid retention and lead to ascites and peripheral edema. The periportal edema could be related to portal hypertension, a common complication of cirrhosis.
  • Sepsis: Sepsis can cause diffuse edema due to increased vascular permeability and can lead to abdominal pain. Periportal and peripancreatic edema could be seen in the context of sepsis-induced organ dysfunction.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): Although less likely, an AAA could cause abdominal pain and, if ruptured, could lead to significant edema and fluid shifts. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.
  • Mesenteric Ischemia: This condition can cause severe abdominal pain and could potentially lead to edema in the affected areas. It's critical to consider due to its high mortality rate if not promptly treated.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma can cause diffuse abdominal edema and could potentially involve the pancreas or liver, leading to the observed CT findings.
  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): SLE can cause a wide range of symptoms, including abdominal pain and edema, due to its autoimmune nature affecting multiple organ systems.
  • Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis: This rare condition can cause abdominal pain and edema, particularly in the peripancreatic and periportal regions, due to venous obstruction.