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Differential Diagnosis for Vomiting in Children Since One Month

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This is a common condition in infants and young children, characterized by the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus, leading to vomiting. The symptoms often peak around 4-6 months of age but can start as early as one month.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Viral Gastroenteritis: Common in children, this condition is caused by viruses such as rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever.
  • Food Allergy or Intolerance: Allergies to milk proteins or other foods can cause vomiting in infants. Lactose intolerance, though less common in infants, can also lead to similar symptoms.
  • Pyloric Stenosis: A condition where the pylorus (the passage between the stomach and small intestine) thickens, causing projectile vomiting. It typically presents in infants around 2-8 weeks of age.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Intussusception: A serious condition where a part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part, potentially cutting off blood flow. It's a medical emergency and can present with vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloody stools.
  • Appendicitis: Though less common in very young children, appendicitis can occur and is a surgical emergency. Symptoms may include vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain.
  • Inborn Errors of Metabolism: Certain metabolic disorders can present with vomiting, among other symptoms, and are critical to diagnose early for proper management.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Congenital Anomalies of the Gastrointestinal Tract: Conditions such as esophageal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, or intestinal malrotation can cause vomiting and are usually diagnosed early in life.
  • Increased Intracranial Pressure: Conditions affecting the brain, such as hydrocephalus or brain tumors, can cause vomiting, especially in the morning, due to increased intracranial pressure.
  • Adrenal Insufficiency: A rare condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, which can lead to vomiting among other symptoms like fatigue and weight loss.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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