Differential Diagnosis for Biliary Emesis in Pediatric Patients
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition is common in pediatric patients and can cause biliary emesis due to the reflux of bile into the stomach and subsequently into the esophagus.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Viral Gastroenteritis: Infections such as rotavirus or norovirus can lead to biliary emesis in children due to inflammation and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Intussusception: Although more commonly associated with intestinal obstruction, intussusception can cause vomiting that may be bile-tinged, especially if there is associated intestinal ischemia.
- Pyloric Stenosis: This condition, characterized by the narrowing of the pylorus, can lead to projectile vomiting that may occasionally be bile-stained, particularly if the condition is advanced or if there is associated gastroesophageal reflux.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis: While appendicitis typically presents with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, the vomit can occasionally be bile-tinged. Missing this diagnosis can lead to severe consequences, including perforation and peritonitis.
- Intestinal Obstruction: Any cause of intestinal obstruction, such as volvulus, adhesions, or hernias, can lead to biliary emesis. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications like ischemia and necrosis of the bowel.
- Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting, which may be bile-tinged. It requires prompt recognition and treatment to manage pain and prevent complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Biliary Atresia: A rare condition in infants where the bile ducts are absent or blocked, leading to jaundice and potentially bile-stained vomiting.
- Choledochal Cysts: Congenital anomalies of the bile duct that can cause obstructive jaundice and, in some cases, biliary emesis.
- Congenital Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis with Associated Anomalies: Although pyloric stenosis is more common, when associated with other congenital anomalies, it can present with a complex clinical picture that includes biliary emesis.