Differential Diagnosis for Left Lower Quadrant Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Diverticulitis: This is the most common cause of left lower quadrant pain, especially in older adults. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula in the colon become inflamed, leading to pain, tenderness, and potentially serious complications if not treated.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Constipation: Constipation can cause significant discomfort and pain in the left lower quadrant due to the buildup of stool in the sigmoid colon.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause recurring abdominal pain, often in the left lower quadrant, along with changes in bowel movements.
- Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often due to infection, can cause left lower quadrant pain among other symptoms.
- Ovarian Cyst or Torsion: In females, ovarian cysts or torsion can cause severe pain that may be localized to the left lower quadrant.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis (if appendix is located in the left lower quadrant): Although appendicitis typically presents with right lower quadrant pain, in some cases the appendix may be located in the left lower quadrant, making this a critical diagnosis not to miss.
- Ectopic Pregnancy: In pregnant women, an ectopic pregnancy can cause severe left lower quadrant pain and is a medical emergency.
- Intestinal Obstruction: Obstruction of the intestines can cause severe pain, vomiting, and constipation, and requires immediate medical attention.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis): These conditions can cause chronic inflammation and pain in the abdomen, including the left lower quadrant.
Rare Diagnoses
- Colonic Cancer: Although less common, cancer of the colon can cause left lower quadrant pain, especially if the tumor is located in the sigmoid colon.
- Splenic Infarction or Rupture: Problems with the spleen, such as infarction or rupture, can cause left upper quadrant pain but may radiate to the left lower quadrant.
- Ureteral Stone: A stone in the ureter can cause severe pain that may be felt in the flank or lower abdomen, including the left lower quadrant.
- Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma can cause abdominal pain, including in the left lower quadrant, due to lymph node enlargement or other complications.