Differential Diagnosis for 22-year-old Female with Nausea, Vomiting, and Abdominal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroenteritis: The presence of fluid in portions of the small bowel and colon, as indicated by the CT abdomen, along with symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, points towards a diagnosis of gastroenteritis. The mild elevation in inflammatory markers (CRP 41.2) and the absence of specific findings for other conditions also support this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): The presence of blood in urine, moderate proteinuria, 30 RBCs, and moderate bacteria in the urine analysis suggests a UTI. The symptoms of nausea and vomiting could be associated with a systemic response to the infection.
- Ovarian Cyst: The finding of multiple small follicles in the ovaries, more prominent on the left, could suggest an ovarian cyst. However, the absence of specific symptoms like pelvic pain localized to one side makes this less likely as the primary diagnosis.
- Cholecystitis or Gallbladder Pathology: Although the CT scan suggests possible faint density in the gallbladder that could be small gallstones or sludge, the absence of pericholecystic inflammatory changes, gallbladder wall thickening, or biliary ductal dilatation makes this less likely. However, it cannot be entirely ruled out without further evaluation.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis: Despite the CT report stating no evidence of appendicitis, this condition can sometimes be missed on imaging, especially if the appendix is not well visualized or if the disease is early. Clinical correlation and possibly further imaging or surgical consultation might be necessary if suspicion remains high.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although not directly suggested by the findings, in a female of childbearing age presenting with abdominal pain, ectopic pregnancy must be considered, especially if there's any chance of pregnancy. A pregnancy test should be performed to rule this out.
- Intestinal Obstruction: The mention of fluid in portions of the small bowel and colon could also suggest an early or partial intestinal obstruction. This would require close monitoring and possibly further imaging to assess for any progression or resolution.
Rare Diagnoses
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): While the findings could suggest a mild ileus or nonspecific gastroenteritis, the presence of abdominal pain and the inflammatory markers could, in rare cases, indicate the onset of IBD. However, this would typically require more specific findings on imaging or endoscopy.
- Ovarian Torsion: Although the CT findings suggest multiple small follicles, ovarian torsion is a rare but emergency condition that could present with acute abdominal pain. The absence of a clear ovarian mass or specific symptoms makes this less likely but should be considered if the patient's condition worsens or if there are specific risk factors.