Differential Diagnosis for Left Upper Quadrant Pain Post PRBC Transfusion
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction: This is the most likely diagnosis given the temporal relationship between the PRBC transfusion and the onset of left upper quadrant pain. Hemolytic transfusion reactions can cause pain due to hemolysis and potential liver and spleen involvement.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Spleen Injury or Infarction: The spleen is located in the left upper quadrant, and any injury or infarction could cause pain in this area. While less directly related to PRBC transfusion, it's a plausible cause for pain in this location.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions like gastritis or peptic ulcer disease could be exacerbated or triggered by the transfusion process, leading to left upper quadrant pain.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Hemorrhage: Although less likely, a hemorrhage in the spleen or other abdominal organs could be life-threatening and must be considered, especially if there's a history of trauma or anticoagulation.
- Sepsis: Infection introduced during the transfusion process, although rare, could lead to sepsis, which is a medical emergency.
- Pulmonary Embolism: While the pain is in the left upper quadrant, it's crucial not to miss a pulmonary embolism, which could present with referred pain and is a life-threatening condition.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Splenic Artery Aneurysm: A rare condition that could cause left upper quadrant pain, potentially rupturing and leading to severe consequences.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas could be triggered by various factors, including medications or the transfusion process itself, leading to left upper quadrant pain.
- Gastric Volvulus: A rare condition where the stomach twists abnormally, which could cause severe pain in the left upper quadrant.