Differential Diagnosis for 22-year-old with Constipation, Abdominal Tenderness, and Weight Loss
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Given the patient's age and symptoms of constipation, abdominal tenderness, and weight loss, IBS is a plausible diagnosis. However, the significant weight loss might suggest other underlying conditions, making this less likely as the single most likely diagnosis without further investigation.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can present with chronic constipation, abdominal pain, and significant weight loss due to malabsorption and chronic inflammation.
- Gastrointestinal Infection: Chronic infections such as giardiasis or other parasitic infections can cause prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms, including constipation, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
- Hypothyroidism: Although less common, hypothyroidism can cause constipation, weight gain is more typical, but weight loss can occur, especially if there's a significant decrease in appetite.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Colorectal Cancer: Although rare in young adults, colorectal cancer can present with changes in bowel habits, abdominal pain, and significant weight loss. It's crucial to not miss this diagnosis due to its severe implications.
- Intestinal Obstruction: Partial or complete obstruction of the intestine can cause severe constipation, abdominal pain, and weight loss. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
- Intra-abdominal Malignancies: Other abdominal cancers, such as lymphoma or ovarian cancer, can present with non-specific symptoms including constipation, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
Rare Diagnoses
- Amyloidosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid proteins in various tissues, including the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms like constipation and weight loss.
- Neurological Disorders: Certain neurological conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis, can affect bowel habits and cause constipation, though they would typically be accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
- Endocrine Disorders: Besides hypothyroidism, other endocrine disorders like Addison's disease can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including changes in bowel habits and weight loss.