Differential Diagnosis for Upper Abdominal Protrusion
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Obesity: The most common cause of upper abdominal protrusion, due to excess fat accumulation in the abdominal region.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pregnancy: Uterine expansion during pregnancy can cause the abdomen to protrude.
- Ascites: Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, often due to liver disease, can lead to abdominal distension.
- Gastrointestinal obstruction: Blockage of the intestine can cause abdominal swelling and protrusion.
- Hernias (e.g., hiatal, epigastric, or umbilical): Weakening of the abdominal wall can allow organs to bulge through, causing protrusion.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm: A life-threatening condition where the aorta enlarges, which can cause abdominal protrusion and pain.
- Ovarian cyst or tumor: Large ovarian cysts or tumors can cause abdominal distension and protrusion.
- Liver or spleen enlargement: Conditions such as liver disease or splenomegaly can cause the abdomen to protrude.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Neurofibromatosis: A genetic disorder that can cause abdominal tumors and protrusion.
- Prune belly syndrome: A rare congenital disorder characterized by abdominal muscle weakness and protrusion.
- Desmoid tumor: A rare type of tumor that can occur in the abdominal wall and cause protrusion.