Differential Diagnosis for Severe Abdominal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: The patient's severe abdominal pain that increases after oral intake is highly suggestive of peptic ulcer disease. The pain typically worsens with food intake due to the increased acid production in the stomach.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Although GERD symptoms can vary, some patients may experience severe abdominal pain, especially after eating, due to acid reflux.
- Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder can cause severe abdominal pain, especially after fatty meals, which can stimulate gallbladder contraction.
- Pancreatitis: Abdominal pain that worsens after eating could be related to pancreatitis, especially if the patient has a history of gallstones or alcohol abuse.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis: Although the pain of appendicitis typically starts near the navel and then moves to the lower right abdomen, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis due to its potential for severe complications if not treated promptly.
- Intestinal Obstruction: This condition can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. It's a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
- Mesenteric Ischemia: This condition involves insufficient blood flow to the intestines and can cause severe abdominal pain out of proportion to the physical examination findings. It's a life-threatening condition that must not be missed.
Rare Diagnoses
- Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: A rare disorder characterized by excessive gastric acid production due to a gastrin-secreting tumor, leading to severe peptic ulcers and abdominal pain.
- Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis: A rare condition involving eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Abdominal Migraine: A rare condition that can cause recurrent episodes of severe abdominal pain, often accompanied by other migraine symptoms like headache and nausea.