Differential Diagnosis for Distended Abdomen
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Constipation: This is often the most common cause of a distended abdomen, especially in the elderly or those with a history of bowel habits that are not regular. Constipation leads to the accumulation of feces in the intestines, causing abdominal distension.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel movements, IBS can cause significant abdominal distension due to gas and fluid accumulation.
- Ascites: The accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, often due to liver cirrhosis, can lead to marked abdominal distension.
- Small Bowel Obstruction: A mechanical obstruction of the small intestine can cause abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause abdominal distension due to inflammation and possible obstruction.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ovarian Torsion: Although less common, ovarian torsion is a surgical emergency that can present with acute abdominal pain and distension, particularly in women.
- Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA): A life-threatening condition that requires immediate surgical intervention, presenting with severe abdominal pain and possible distension.
- Perforated Viscus: A hole in the wall of the stomach or intestine can lead to peritonitis, an infection of the abdominal cavity, which is a medical emergency.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: In pregnant women, an ectopic pregnancy can cause abdominal distension and pain, and is a life-threatening condition if not promptly treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Abdominal lymphoma can cause distension due to the accumulation of lymphatic fluid or the growth of tumor masses.
- Tuberculosis: Abdominal tuberculosis can lead to ascites, bowel obstruction, and abdominal distension.
- Cystic Fibrosis: In advanced stages, cystic fibrosis can cause intestinal obstruction and distal intestinal obstruction syndrome (DIOS), leading to abdominal distension.
- Abdominal Lymphangioma: A rare benign tumor that can cause abdominal distension due to the accumulation of lymphatic fluid.