Differential Diagnosis for Chronic Yellow Diarrhea
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Giardiasis: This is a common cause of chronic diarrhea, especially if the patient has a history of travel or exposure to contaminated water. The yellow color of the diarrhea could be due to the presence of excess fat (steatorrhea), which is a hallmark of giardiasis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Celiac Disease: An autoimmune reaction to gluten can cause chronic diarrhea, and the malabsorption of fats can lead to yellow, greasy stools.
- Pancreatic Insufficiency: A deficiency in pancreatic enzymes can lead to malabsorption of fats, resulting in chronic yellow diarrhea.
- Bile Salt Malabsorption: Conditions such as ileal resection or disease can lead to bile salt malabsorption, causing chronic diarrhea with a yellow or greasy appearance.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Whipple's Disease: A rare, systemic bacterial infection that can cause chronic diarrhea, malabsorption, and weight loss. If missed, it can lead to severe complications and death.
- Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma, such as intestinal lymphoma, can cause chronic diarrhea and malabsorption. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
- Amyloidosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of abnormal proteins in various organs, including the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause chronic diarrhea and malabsorption.
Rare Diagnoses
- Abetalipoproteinemia: A rare genetic disorder that affects the absorption of fats, leading to chronic diarrhea and malabsorption.
- Chronic Intestinal Pseudo-Obstruction: A rare condition characterized by impaired intestinal motility, which can cause chronic diarrhea and malabsorption.
- Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis: A rare condition characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause chronic diarrhea and malabsorption.